It depends on various factors like your hair type, lifestyle, and age, according to experts.
Washing your hair with shampoo helps remove dirt, sweat, dandruff, and excess oil (sebum) from your scalp and hair. Sebum is essential for scalp health, but too much buildup can cause issues like greasiness and odor.
For people with oily scalps or fine hair that quickly becomes greasy, daily shampooing may be necessary to keep the hair fresh and clean. However, individuals with curly or dry hair may find that washing daily or even every few days can lead to dryness, brittleness, or breakage. For Black individuals, it’s generally recommended to wash hair once a week or every other week.
Chemical treatments like hair dyes or relaxers can weaken the hair shaft, making it more susceptible to damage. In such cases, washing two to three times a week with a gentle shampoo is advised. Additionally, certain medications can contribute to scalp dryness, so using a moisturizing shampoo can help prevent irritation.
If you exercise regularly and sweat excessively, rinsing your hair daily is recommended to remove salt and prevent folliculitis (inflammation of hair follicles). You may not need to use shampoo every day—alternating with a water rinse can help minimize oil stripping.
When washing your hair, use mild sulfate-free or gentle shampoos and avoid hot water and excessive scrubbing to prevent scalp irritation. Air drying is preferable over using heat, as it’s less damaging to your hair.
Ultimately, the frequency of washing should be based on your hair’s condition and how it responds to your current routine. If your scalp is healthy, and your hair is not dry or brittle, continue with your routine.